Complaints by model year
| Year | Complaints | vs. typical* | Recalls | Top problem | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 5 | 2.5× | — | Transmission | Few |
| 2020 | 6 | 1.2× | — | Engine | Few |
| 2017 | 11 | typical | — | Fuel System | Average |
| 2015 | 9 | −30% | — | Electrical | Average |
| 2014 | 12 | −80% | — | Engine | Good |
| 2013 | 9 | −40% | — | Window & Wiper | Good |
| 2012 | 18 | 1.5× | — | Airbag | Caution |
| 2011 | 15 | typical | — | Airbag | Average |
| 2010 | 40 | 2.2× | 1 | Airbag | Caution |
| 2009 | 40 | 2.5× | 2 | Acceleration | Caution |
| 2008 | 102 | 5.3× | 3 | Engine | Avoid |
| 2007 | 122 | 6.1× | 3 | Body | Avoid |
| 2006 | 143 | 5.8× | 7 | Body | Avoid |
| 2005 | 12 | typical | — | Body | Average |
| 2004 | 10 | −70% | — | Body | Good |
| 2003 | 12 | −70% | — | Airbag | Good |
| 2002 | 12 | −50% | — | Body | Good |
* Complaints compared with the median IS year at the same age, so new and old years are judged fairly. How this works.
Most common Lexus IS problems
Latest Lexus IS recalls
Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2006-2009 Lexus is and model year 2006-2007 Lexus gs vehicles. Due to insufficient tightening of the fuel pressure sensor connected to an engine fuel delivery pipe with nickel phosphorus plating, there is a possibility that, over time, the pressure sensor could loosen.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect for fuel leakage from the threaded portion of the fuel pressure sensor and if a fuel leak is not confirmed, dealers will further tighten the fuel pressure sensor with the proper torque.
Service brakes, hydraulic › Foundation components › Master cylinder
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2005-2006 avalon, model year 2004-2006 highlander, model year 2004-2006 Lexus rx, and model year 2006 Lexus gs and is vehicles. Brake fluid containing polymers is used that acts as lubricants for certain brake system components.
Remedy: Dealers will replace the seal with a newly designed one. This service will be performed free of charge. The safety recall began on November 15, 2010.
Vehicle speed control › Accelerator pedal
Toyota is recalling certain model year 2004-2010 passenger vehicles. The accelerator pedal can get stuck in the wide open position due to its being trapped by an unsecured or incompatible driver's floor mat.
Remedy: Toyota filed an amended defect report on November 25, 2009, stating that dealers will modify the accelerator pedal and, on certain vehicles, alter the shape of the floor surface under the pedal.
Engine and engine cooling
Toyota is recalling 214,570 my 2006-2008 Lexus is, my 2006-2007 gs and my 2007-2008 ls passenger vehicles equipped with aluminum fuel delivery pipes (fuel rails). Ethanol fuels with a low moisture content will corrode the internal surface of the fuel rails.
Remedy: Dealers will inspect and replace the fuel delivery pipes free of charge. The recall is expected to begin during February 2009. Owners May contact Toyota/Lexus at 1-800-255-3987.
Fuel system, gasoline › Delivery › Hoses, lines/piping, and fittings
On certain vehicles, high stress areas May have been created in two specific fuel pipes located in the engine compartment. Combined with other factors such as the presence of corrosive agents in fuel, a crack May form over time leading to fuel leakage from the fuel line(s).
Remedy: Dealers will replace the two involved fuel lines with newly designed lines free of charge. The recall began on December 15, 2007. Owners May contact Lexus at 1-800-255-3987.
Frequently asked questions
What years of the Lexus IS should you avoid?
2008, 2009, 2010, 2012, 2007 and 2006 — these years have the most complaints relative to other IS years at the same age, led by engine & cooling problems in the 2008.
What is the best year for the Lexus IS?
2014 has the fewest complaints compared with other IS years at the same age, followed by 2013 and 2015. Newer years can look better simply because fewer complaints have come in yet, so we compare like with like.
What are the most common Lexus IS problems?
Across all years, owners report the most problems with the body & structure (144), air bags (116) and windows, wipers & sunroof (91). Body complaints peak in the 2007 model year.
How many recalls has the Lexus IS had?
7 recalls across 2002–2023. The model year with the most is 2006. See all Lexus IS recalls by year.
Source: U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) — owner complaints through October 20, 2026, recalls and defect investigations; fuel economy from the EPA. Complaints are unverified reports and are not proof of a defect. How we rate model years.